Valley issued avalanche warning till February 24

An avalanche warning was issued today in view of moderate to heavy snowfall forecast over the next week in the Valley.
"According to Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, the western disturbance that is persisting over the state is likely to affect from today to February 24 with occasional gaps. Under the influence of the disturbance, moderate rain and snowfall over higher reaches will occur at most places of Kashmir and Jammu divisions and at many places of Ladakh region.
"Some places may receive heavy rain and snow during this period. The weather conditions may trigger landslides and avalanches in vulnerable areas of the State," an official spokesman said.

He said the people living in avalanche-prone areas of Bandipora and Kupwara districts have been asked not to venture out during the above mentioned period and to keep clearing the snow from roof-tops of their houses to avoid any damage to life and property.
The concerned deputy commissioners have been asked to take all precautionary measures so as to avert any untoward incident, the spokesman said.
Meanwhile, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Rohit Kansal during a high-level meeting of divisional officers, asked them to gear up men and machinery to tackle any eventuality which may arise due to possible snowfall in the Valley, he said.

He noted that the divisional commissioner was apprised that snow cutter machines have been kept available for clearing highways and other major roads of snow.
Kansal also asked the concerned officials to remove bottlenecks in the National Highway widening besides removing encroachments and illegal structures in and around the highway, the spokesman added.